Physiotherapy in the management of TMD

Abstract

This thesis examines the role of physiotherapy in the management of temporomandibular disorders (TMDs), which are multifactorial conditions affecting the temporomandibular joint, masticatory muscles, and associated structures. It outlines the anatomy, aetiology, classification, diagnosis, and current treatment approaches for TMDs, emphasizing their biopsychosocial nature and significant impact on patients’ quality of life. The review highlights conservative, non-invasive management as the first-line approach, with physiotherapy—particularly manual therapy and therapeutic exercises—playing a central role. Evidence from recent systematic reviews and clinical studies demonstrates that physiotherapy can significantly reduce pain, improve maximal mouth opening, enhance function, and support long-term rehabilitation. The thesis concludes that an integrated approach combining manual therapy, exercise, patient education, and behavioural interventions provides the most effective strategy, while further high-quality research is needed to determine optimal treatment protocols. This thesis examines the role of physiotherapy in the management of temporomandibular disorders (TMDs), which are multifactorial conditions affecting the temporomandibular joint, masticatory muscles, and associated structures. It outlines the anatomy, aetiology, classification, diagnosis, and current treatment approaches for TMDs, emphasizing their biopsychosocial nature and significant impact on patients’ quality of life. The review highlights conservative, non-invasive management as the first-line approach, with physiotherapy—particularly manual therapy and therapeutic exercises—playing a central role. Evidence from recent systematic reviews and clinical studies demonstrates that physiotherapy can significantly reduce pain, improve maximal mouth opening, enhance function, and support long-term rehabilitation. The thesis concludes that an integrated approach combining manual therapy, exercise, patient education, and behavioural interventions provides the most effective strategy, while further high-quality research is needed to determine optimal treatment protocols.